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German eID

The German eID step is the part of a DocIDV journey where a user verifies their identity using the electronic identity function of a German identity document.

electronic signature step

This step enables identity data to be read directly from the official chip of a supported German eID document through a dedicated eID process. It provides a trusted digital identity source and can be used as an alternative or complement to document image-based verification methods, depending on the configured journey.

This step is designed for journeys where electronic identification via the German eID ecosystem is supported and enabled.

What happens during a German eID step​

The eID step is responsible for:

  1. Prompting the user to start the eID process

    • The user is informed that identity verification will be performed using their German eID-capable document.
    • The step explains the prerequisites needed to continue.

  2. Checking readiness for the eID interaction

    • The user must have a supported German identity document with eID functionality enabled.
    • The user must also have the required device setup and access conditions to complete the interaction.

  3. Handling PIN interaction when required

    • Depending on the configuration and the user’s eID status, the journey may include a PIN-related interaction.
    • This can include PIN entry or PIN change before the eID data exchange is completed.

  4. Initiating the eID data exchange

    • The journey triggers the electronic identification process to access identity information from the document chip.
    • This interaction typically relies on secure communication between the document, the user device, and the relevant eID infrastructure.

  5. Retrieving identity data

    • The system receives the identity attributes provided through the eID process.
    • These attributes can then be used as part of the verification journey.

  6. Returning the result to the flow

    • Once the eID interaction is completed, the result is passed back into the broader journey so that the business process can continue.

Why this step matters​

The German eID step provides a strong digital identity source directly linked to an official identity document.

Compared with purely image-based capture processes, it can offer a more direct and structured way to retrieve trusted identity data from the document chip through the official electronic identification function.

A well-integrated German eID step can help provide:

  • a high-assurance identity data source
  • reduced reliance on manual document image interpretation
  • a smoother digital identity experience for eligible users
  • stronger confidence in the origin of identity attributes
  • a streamlined route for supported regulated or trust-sensitive use cases